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Monday, August 27, 2012

Slowing Down

Do you ever feel like you're constantly moving, always on the go and trying to get things done?  Just the other day while my husband and I were having dinner, we looked at each other and said, "let's just slow down and take a minute."  Even while eating, we felt this haste and had to remind each other to relax a bit and tend to the moment. Life is busy.  Planning a wedding is even more so.  There is a lot to do and it's hard not to quicken the pace to make sure everything is accomplished in a timely fashion.  By living life in fast forward, however, we miss out on the little things: a quiet dinner for two, a walk through the park, or a relaxing bubble bath.  These kinds of activities are meant to help us unwind from a busy day or week.  But if we rush through it or do it by rote, we devalue these times and ourselves.  Slowing down and giving your attention to the activity at hand allows you to enjoy more, focus better, and feel refreshed.
There will be times, of course, when you will need to work harder or faster to accomplish something;  but it doesn't have to come at the expense of your well being.  Think about one area where you could benefit from slowing down.  Challenge yourself to work on that area so that you are better in tune with the activity and the moment.  You'll be surprised at how much more meaningful it becomes and how much better you feel.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Forgiveness

Forgive and forget: if only it were that simple.  In life, it's easy to hold grudges.  Someone wrongs us and we feel the need to get even.  We hold onto misdeeds and wrongdoings for weeks, months, or even years.  Sometimes we don't even remember what the argument was about, but we know we were right and so, we don't forgive and we don't forget. At times in our lives when we embark on new journeys and open new chapters, it's a good practice to reflect on the act of forgiveness.  When planning your wedding, you may find yourself come across a family member or friend that did something hurtful to you in the past or vice versa.  Ask yourself if the hurt is worth the effects of holding a grudge.  Bottling our emotions and negative feelings inside can cause anxiety, stress, restlessness, and a general sense of uneasiness.  It can create bitterness and resentment.  Most would agree, these aren't emotions you want to begin a happy time in your life with.  Forgiveness, whether face to face or internally (i.e., forgiving yourself for something), can give you a sense of freedom.  Many people who embrace forgiveness say they feel a weight lifted off their shoulders.  They are no longer burdened by the negative feelings that surrounded them prior.  They are happier and healthier.
If there is someone you need to forgive or need to ask forgiveness from, think about it.  Consider your situation and feelings, and decide how you can move forward in a way that will help and heal you, if necessary.  Challenge yourself to go to your wedding ceremony with a clean slate, ready to be filled with positive emotions, energy, and relationships.   The act of forgiveness may help you get there.